ST VINCENT & THE GRENADINES

Bequia, pronounced “Beck-way,” is a hidden gem in the Grenadines, just eight nautical miles south of mainland St. Vincent. This Caribbean island boasts white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and warm-hearted locals. Port Elizabeth, its bustling yachting town, invites you to explore. Dive into crystal-clear waters, savor local cuisine (try the flavorful “goat water” soup), and sip on refreshing Bitter Lemon or the local brew, Hairoun. Bequia’s charm lies in its unspoiled beauty, where every sunset paints a masterpiece. Whether you’re sailing, snorkeling, or simply unwinding on the shore.

go

The best time to visit St. Vincent & The Grenadines is May to June and November. During these shoulder months, hotels drop their rates to attract travelers. The peak season – December through April – lures European visitors with its warm and dry Caribbean temperatures. Here’s a breakdown:
December-April: Prime time with the highest hotel rates. Book in advance for availability. Look out for events like Mustique’s annual Blues Festival.
May-June: Sweet spot between hurricane season and high tourism. Mid-80s temperatures. 
July-October: Prices drop, crowds wane. July has the most rainfall. Lush landscape, but tropical storms threaten until October.
November: Budget-friendly month with mild weather and fewer crowds.

do

Here are some of the must-do tourist attractions:

Tobago Cays: Snorkeling and sailing in the Tobago Cays offer calm, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding coral gardens are rich in marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, barracuda, and colorful reef fish.

St. Vincent Botanical Gardens: Established in 1765, these delightful gardens are the oldest in the West Indies. Explore 20 acres of indigenous and exotic tropical plants, including hibiscus, cinnamon, nutmeg, mahogany, and the famous breadfruit tree.

Fort Charlotte: Visit this historic fort on St. Vincent for panoramic views of the island and its coastline. The fort dates back to the 18th century and offers a glimpse into the island’s past.

Bequia: Known as the “Big Little Island,” Bequia is a charming spot with friendly locals, vibrant markets, and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the chance to explore its unique character.

Salt Whistle Bay, Mayreau: This idyllic bay on Mayreau is a postcard-perfect paradise. Crystal-clear waters, powdery sand, and swaying palm trees await you.

eat

Here are some must-try foods:

Breadfruit and Jackfish: This is the national dish of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It consists of whole roasted breadfruit, peeled and sliced, served with fried jackfish. The combination is often accompanied by sauce or salad.

Saltfish Buljol: A dish made from stewed salted cod fish, onions, sweet peppers, and tomatoes. What sets it apart is the use of spicy peppers in the stew. The name “buljol” likely evolved from the French words “brule” (burn) and “gueule” (informal for mouth).

Madungo Bakes: These fried breads are made from arrowroot flour, often flavored with nutmeg and coconut. They can be eaten plain or filled with saltfish. Arrowroot is unique to St. Vincent, as most other Caribbean islands use wheat flour for their dumplings and bakes.

Callaloo Soup: Made from dasheen leaves (a type of taro), this soup includes root vegetables, meat, dumplings, and coconut milk.

tips

Here are some useful tips:

Currency: The official currency is the East Caribbean dollar (XCD), with a fixed exchange rate of US$1 = EC$2.68. It’s widely accepted, but having local currency is recommended, especially in rural areas.

Safety: If you plan to trek, hire an experienced guide. Coastal waters can be dangerous, and there’s limited police presence in certain areas. Be cautious during demonstrations and follow road safety guidelines.

Island Hopping: Explore smaller islands like Bequia, Mustique, and Union Island. Don’t miss the breathtaking Tobago Cays, where you can swim with turtles.